Only in its third year, already the Big Bear Paddlefest – put on by North Shore Trading Company in Fawnskin - is a huge hit. Paddlers from every discipline shared the waters and the race drew competitors from as far away as Tecate, Mexico and Sacramento.

Saturday’s event included beginner and advanced clinics in canoe, kayak & stand up paddleboards (SUP). While there were a few unintentional capsizes, a team rescue and recovery clinic in the afternoon got everyone in the water - flipping their boats and learning how to get back in. Fortunately the day was hot and the tumble into the water was sweet relief.

New this year to Paddlefest is an affiliation with Hobie SUPs. Hobie’s Mark Carlisle gave expert advice during his beginner and advanced SUP clinics on Saturday and offered free SUP demos all weekend. Doyle Surfboards joined in with free demos of their SUP line. If you haven’t tried SUP – you should - super fun and a great workout. Captain John’s has a fleet of SUPs for rent this year.

Sunday was race day. The 30K and 10K races began at 8:00. A crazy starting line with solo kayaks, tandem sit-on-tops, SUP’s and even a four man canoe. There was a bit of a wake from all the boats speeding off as Paul Romero gave the start command. The 5k – equally as exciting and visually fun to watch – went off at 10, followed by the kid’s fun paddle.

While a few competitors got wet, everyone finished with smiles. Locals featured prominently in the podium standings – proving Big Bear is generating some amazing athletes. And, I have to mention Dan McKernan – he placed 3rd in the Men’s 5K Kayak and was pretty stoked on his podium finish.

Earning my turns, Glade GirlPaddling Hard to the Finish Line